Abstract: A compact, lightweight, electrically powered hoist with a drum used for hoisting or lowering a payload. A vertically oriented reversible motor is controlled by a control pendant with a momentary switch to drive a helical gear reduction and a worm gear reduction. A worm shaft and a drum shaft wind wire rope on a drum. A one-way clutch and a brake on a driven shaft free-wheel during hoisting operations. A clutch and brake hold the payload in a hoisted position. Lowering of the hoisted payload is accomplished by reversal of the motor, and driving a shaft and clutch against the torque of the engaged brake. A wire rope with a swaged fitting is anchored to the drum by engagement in a keyhole. The hoist may be mounted horizontally, vertically or on a ceiling.